1996 BMW 318i Convertible
Fuel Economy Overview
The 1996 BMW 318i Convertible achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG in combined city and highway driving, with 19 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. Powered by a 1.9L 4-cylinder engine paired with a automatic 4-spd, this minicompact cars features Rear-Wheel Drive drive.
In terms of environmental impact, the 1996 318i Convertible produces approximately 404 grams of CO2 per mile. This figure is measured under standardized EPA test conditions and represents tailpipe emissions only. For context, the average new vehicle sold in the United States produces approximately 400 grams of CO2 per mile, meaning this 318i Convertible has higher-than-average emissions in this regard.
The estimated annual fuel cost for this vehicle is $3,150, based on 15,000 miles of driving per year and current national average fuel prices. Compared to the average new vehicle, you would save $5,000 over a 5-year period. This calculation accounts for differences in fuel consumption efficiency and provides a practical measure of long-term ownership costs attributable to fuel economy.
Energy DNA
Green Scorecard
Personalized Commute CalculatorEPA defaults to 55% City / 45% Hwy
Adjust the slider to match your daily driving habits. City driving involves stop-and-go traffic under 45mph, while highway driving represents sustained speeds over 55mph.
Aerodynamic Speed Penalty
EPA highway tests average roughly 48 mph. Driving at 75 mph increases aerodynamic drag exponentially. Expect your real-world highway fuel economy to drop by roughly 15-20% at interstate speeds.
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership
Recall Intelligence
THE CRUISE CONTROL AND THROTTLE CABLES ARE ATTACHED TO THE SAME THROTTLE VALVE ACTUATING LEVER AT THE THROTTLE HOUSING. IT IS POSSIBLE THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHING ON EITHER CABLE COULD BREAK DUE TO ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCES COUPLED WITH VIBRATION. IF THE BUSHING BREAKS, THE OUTER CABLE HOUSING CAN SEPARATE FROM THE BUSHING. IN THIS CASE, DURING APPLICATION OF THE THROTTLE PEDAL WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED, THE OUTER TUBE COULD CATCH ON THE EDGE OF THE BROKEN BUSHING.
Consequence & Remedy
Consequence: THIS COULD CAUSE THE THROTTLE VALVE TO REMAIN PARTIALLY OPEN. IT HIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE CAR MIGHT NOT DECELERATE AS EXPECTED INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SPRING STEEL CLIP ON THE OUTER TUBE OF EACH CABLE IN THE AREA OF THE ADJUSTING SCREW AND PLASTIC BUSHING. THE CLIP IS DESIGNED TO PREVENT THE OUTER TUBE FROM DISLODGING FROM THE BUSHING.
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Looking for comprehensive historical data?
NHTSA FARS (Fatal Crash History) and broader generational safety trends are aggregated at the model level rather than by specific engine configurations. View the complete historical data profile for all BMW 318i Convertible configurations.
Similar 1996 Minicompact Cars Alternatives
1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible
2.4L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1996 Nissan 240SX
2.4L 4-cyl Rear-Wheel Drive
1996 Toyota Celica Convertible
2.2L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
1996 BMW 318i Convertible
1.9L 4-cyl Rear-Wheel Drive
1996 BMW 328i Convertible
2.8L 6-cyl Rear-Wheel Drive
1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse Convertible
2L 4-cyl Front-Wheel Drive
Fuel Cost Analysis
Based on 15,000 miles/year and current fuel prices.
Efficiency Breakdown
Estimated Lifetime Carbon Footprint
(Based on 200,000 miles driven)